# Can you get student loans for a second bachelor's? Federal & private options

By [Victoria Holliday](/content/blog/author-page/victoria-holliday/index.html) **|** Published on October 21, 2025

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Pursuing a second bachelor's degree can open new career opportunities, but financing this educational path requires careful consideration. While it's possible to use student loans for a second bachelor's degree, the rules and eligibility requirements differ from first-degree funding. Federal loan availability may be limited, and private loans often play a larger role in financing a second undergraduate degree. Understanding your options and limitations is crucial before embarking on this academic journey.

## How to pay for a second Bachelor's Degree

While some federal funding options, like the [Pell Grant](https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/grants/pell), aren't available for second bachelor's degrees, you still have several funding options. Many students combine federal student loans, private student loans, and [employer tuition assistance programs](/content/blog/jobs-that-pay-for-college/index.html). Consider school-specific scholarships targeting career changers or returning students. Some institutions also offer payment plans to spread tuition costs across multiple installments, making expenses more manageable.

## Federal student loan options for second Bachelor's degrees

The first step for federal funding is [completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)](https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa), and this remains true for second degrees. Filing FAFSA remains essential for financial aid with your second degree, though funding options may be more limited. Here's what you need to know:

**Key steps:**

1. Sign in with your FSA ID
2. Select "Yes" when asked if you'll have your first bachelor's degree before the school year
3. Complete the standard FAFSA process

Lifetime borrowing limits still apply, so subtract any previous federal loans from your total available amount. Before [completing the FAFSA](/content/blog/apply-for-fafsa/index.html) make sure you know your borrowing history for your first undergraduate degree. Most federal student loans come with borrowing limits, so if you're nearing this limit from your first degree, it could impact how much federal funding you can secure for your second degree. If you've reached the maximum borrowing amount for your first undergrad degree, you won’t be able to get federal funds for a second bachelor's degree.

If FAFSA is not an option for you, there are still many other funding options worth pursuing, like scholarships and grants, work study programs, and seeing if you qualify for state aid options or financial aid from your school.

## Private student loan alternatives

Private student loans¹ are another option to help fund a second bachelor's degree. These loans typically offer:

- Loan amounts based on cost of attendance
- Various repayment terms
- Credit-based approval and rates
- No lifetime borrowing limits

Before committing to a loan, [check your rate with Earnest](/content/_/slo/rate-estimate/index.html) to understand your options. The process is easy:

- Complete a 2-minute rate check
- See your rate options without affecting your credit score
- View personalized loan terms based on your financial profile

## Additional funding sources to consider

As with any loan options, make sure to explore all funding options before you take on debt. Some other ways to help support a second Bachelor’s degree are:

- Employer tuition reimbursement programs
- Academic scholarships for second-degree students
- Work-study programs
- Personal savings or [529 plan funds](/content/blog/how-to-use-a-529-plan-for-college/index.html)

## Making the decision

As you weigh more school and more debt evaluate the full picture. Some aspects to consider are: Expected return on investment in your new field, the time to complete the degree, current employment status and income and your existing student loan debt.

Remember to exhaust all federal loan options and scholarships before turning to private loans. With careful planning and the right financing mix, earning a second bachelor's degree can be a valuable investment in your future.

## Consider a private student loan with Earnest

If you're ready to explore [private student loan options](/content/student-loans/index.html) for your second bachelor's degree, checking your rate with Earnest is a smart first step. You'll get a clear picture of potential terms and monthly payments without impacting your credit score.

About the Author

## Victoria Holliday

Victoria is the Head of Content at Earnest. She brings extensive ed-tech expertise from six years at Chegg, where she developed educational resources reaching over 20 million students nationwide.

With a Master’s in Political Science and experience in public policy from several California campaigns, she’s passionate about creating accessible content that enhances student outcomes in the dynamic world of higher education.

###### Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This blog post provides personal finance educational information, and it is not intended to provide legal, financial, or tax advice.